Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks (Fodor's) - Fodor's [42]
Grizzly Falls.
This little gem is worth a pull-over, if not a picnic. From the small parking lot, take a very short trek into the woods to picnic tables and to the base of the delightful, 100-foot-plus falls. An outhouse is on-site, but grills are not, and water is unavailable. | Off Rte. 180, 2½ mi west of Cedar Grove entrance 93633.
OUTSIDE THE PARKS
Gateway Restaurant and Lodge.
$$–$$$ | AMERICAN | The patio of this raucous roadhouse overlooks the roaring Kaweah River as it plunges out of the high country, and though the food is nothing special, the location makes up for it. Standouts include baby back ribs and eggplant parmigiana; there’s also a cocktail lounge, and guest rooms are available for overnight visitors. Breakfast isn’t served weekdays; dinner reservations are essential on weekends. | 45978 Sierra Dr., Three Rivers 93271 | 559/561–4133 | AE, D, MC, V.
Henry Salazar’s.
$$$–$$$$ | MEXICAN | Traditional Mexican fare with an emphasis on seafood receives a contemporary twist here. Grilled salmon with lemon-butter sauce, chili verde, and steaks are all tasty in the colorful, candlelighted dining room. | 123 W. Main St., Visalia 93277 | 559/741–7060 | AE, D, MC, V.
Stony Creek Restaurant.
¢–$ | AMERICAN | Although it once contained a family-style restaurant, this property in Sequoia National Forest now serves pizza. You can grab coffee, a prepackaged sandwich, or picnic supplies in the small market. | Generals Hwy. (Rte. 198), between Sequoia and Kings Canyon parks, 12 mi south of Grant Grove, Sequoia National Forest 93262 | 559/565–3909 | AE, D, MC, V | Closed mid-Oct.–May.
Uncle Harry’s Classic Meals.
$ | MIDDLE EASTERN | You can taste the Armenian heritage of the Fresno area at this local landmark about 10 mi southeast of Sanger. Shish kebab and keyma (seasoned raw beef or lamb with bulgur wheat) are two of the specialties that you can try in the casual dining room, on the patio, or to go. | 1201 G St., Reedley 93654 | 559/638–5170 | Reservations not accepted | No credit cards.
The Vintage Press.
$$$–$$$$ | NEW AMERICAN | The best restaurant in the Central Valley serves up California-French cuisine such as pistachio-crusted king salmon and filet mignon with mustard and cognac. The homemade chocolate–Grand Marnier cake is a standout and the wine list has hundreds of selections. A brass-railed bar, Tiffany-style ceiling lamps, and wood paneling impart an adult but not stuffy tone. | 216 N. Willis St., Visalia 93277 | 559/733–3033 | AE, DC, MC, V.
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WHERE TO STAY
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ABOUT THE HOTELS
Hotel accommodations in Sequoia and Kings Canyon are limited, and—although they are clean and comfortable—tend to lack much in-room character. Keep in mind, however, that the extra money you spend on lodging here is offset by the time you’ll save by being inside the parks. You won’t be faced with a 60- to 90-minute commute from the less-expensive motels in Three Rivers and Fresno. Reserve as far in advance as you can, especially for summertime stays.
ABOUT THE CAMPGROUNDS
Campgrounds in Sequoia and Kings Canyon are located in wonderful settings, with lots of shade and nearby hiking trails. But beware that party-loving "locals" from Fresno and other Central Valley cities swarm up here on Friday and Saturday nights. Only the Dorst Creek and Lodgepole campgrounds accept reservations (up to five months in advance), and none has RV hookups. Campgrounds around Lodgepole and Grant Grove get quite busy in summer with vacationing families. Permits are required for backcountry camping.
SEQUOIA
Silver City Mountain Resort.
$$–$$$ | High on Mineral King Road, this privately owned resort has rustic cabins and Swiss-style chalets, all with at least a stove, refrigerator, and sink. While the more expensive chalets have full bathrooms and kitchens,